BLACK-BREASTED SANDPIPER. 211 



turned, was gratified by the sight of a great number of 

 Dunlins and Ring-Plovers. In the first place, I met with 

 two flocks reposing, the one among some thin herbage, 

 composed chiefly of Glaux maritima ; the other on a slightly 

 elevated part of the sand, just above water-mark. Indi- 

 viduals of both species were intermingled, all lying flat on 

 the ground, and in a crouching attitude, with the neck drawn 

 in. Thus, as I have elsewhere observed, these birds repose 

 during the period of high water in unfrequented places along 

 the shore, and generally, especially if there be a strong 

 wind, in a decumbent posture. On my approaching them, 

 they dispersed, and began to search for food. Presently 

 straggling bands flew in from a distance, and alighted on 

 the shore. The Dunlins on such occasions come gliding on 

 outspread wings, which in alighting they extend and elevate 

 a little. They then run a few steps, and stand a short time, or 

 at once commence their search. These bands were remarkably 

 intent on seeking for food, so that I was allowed to walk up to 

 about fifteen paces from one of them. In this flock of about 

 fifteen, two limped, apparently having had one of their legs 

 damaged by shot, yet they seemed scarcely less active than 

 the rest. Being in a muddy place which probably afforded 

 a good supply of food, they did not run much, but yet moved 

 quickly about, with their legs a little bent, the body hori- 

 zontal, the head a little declined, and the bill directed 

 forwards toward the ground at an angle of about forty-five 

 degrees. I observed that they seemed in general merely to 

 touch the surface, but also sometimes to introduce their bill 

 into the mud for about a fourth of its length ; but this 

 always with a rapid tapping and somewhat wriggling move- 

 ment, and not by thrusting it in sedately. This flock having 

 flown away, I observed another of about twelve individuals 

 alight at a little distance on the other side of the mill- 

 stream. Being very intent on tapping the mud, they allowed 

 me to approach within ten paces, so that I could see them 

 very distinctly. I was surprised to hear from them a very 

 gentle warble, which was composed of feeble notes somewhat 

 resembling the syllables pee-pee-pee, continually repeated, 

 and with more frequency when the individuals came very 



